fillefrance:
https://mega.nz/#F!U1kgwbiA!zoaZaGWvfcCGhehg4VPgwg!Y9tjEYzb

Link to Michel Thomas French audio files; open on a computer and unzip.

You would need to:

Create a Mega account (free, limited)
Copy the files to your system
Download 7-zip file manager (free)
Open 7-zip and extract the files
Listen and learn

Keep going everyone, and thanks to all who so selflessly make this forum so useful.

Merciii

Good day and happy Christmas to everyone.

I actually typed my TEF experience here but exclusively in French language and, of course, I got banned by one aunty Spam Butt. I was expecting the ban so I copied the entire text somewhere such that I could easily translate it to English and paste later.

I went to Alliance Francaise two Saturdays before the exam to familiarize myself with fellow candidates and exam format (this is not without a cost). This was actually a great idea as I got to meet many people with lots of ideas and experiences to share. We solved questions together and helped each other as much as we could. We also had a Whatsapp group where we discussed social topics like politics, education, career, marriage, etc.; we also played scenarios and shared voice notes all in a bid to fortify our knowledge of French language. This was managed by a French teacher from Alliance.

Fast-forward to the exam day, I got there early despite missing my way. I was already used to some of the faces so it was just like any other day. We spent time discussing random things in French language. Some spoke better than others but no one was deterred. We were later separated into different rooms for the exam. We started with Listening. Truth be told, I was heavily distracted. I was literally struggling to catch up. The reading part was simple for me. Of course, it had those heavily worded passages that normally give headache but thanks to practicing, I knew exactly how to go about them. Then the writing; I was asked to finish a story about a guy that slept off at work and had his collogues take picture of him. This was fun actually. A lot of endings came to my mind. I later settled for one where the pictures were posted online and a prospective client saw them and denied the coy a contract cause of it. A joke gone wrong kinda thing. The second part was a letter to a publisher about an article on reducing waste. I have forgotten the title but it was all about recycling. Well, I wrote as much as I could given my little knowledge of recycling as a Nigerian. We then left for a 30min break after which we were called in one after another for the speaking part. There were two examiners. One would read out the instructions in French and ask you if you understood them. When she asked me, I quickly said yes. She wasn’t convinced so she asked me to explain what I understood and I did. Firstly, I was asked to call a help center and ask questions about a proposed night excursion. It was pretty regular, anybody who followed njbybrthnly's sample answers should be able to answer that. Then, they gave me a question on convincing my friend to join the choir. I played the scenario with the other examiner. I made points about how joining the choir will make him learn English more since it has been scientifically proven that repetition helps in language learning and singing involves repetition of words. Again, fun it was.

I wrote on the 27th of October and the results came out on the 14th of December, same day my IELTS came out.

My advice:

For speaking, cram regular responses if your spoken French is not sharp enough. The questions are usually alike. Speak more with friends. On the exam day, just keep speaking until you are stopped.

For Listening, listen to as much online French videos as possible. Concentrate on the exam day and do not leave any question unanswered. No point coming back later to answer as each audio is played once so just check your best guess and move on with the audio immediately.

For Reading, read past questions and solve them in groups with the aid of a more advanced person. Some answers are subject to debate even with the text there looking at you. Past questions are sometimes repeated.

For writing, know the format and sentence/paragraph joiners. Use simple sentences but employ different modes and tenses. Stay organized and concise.

All the best to those yet to write!

Mamaroon:
FRENCH TUTORIAL 1

(NJ, Etrange, Bellerin, Mariah, Ayboye, oya follow me for back...)

English a or an is equivalent to
French un (m) or une (f)

English the is equivalent to
French le (m) or la (f)

Every french word is either feminine or masculine

A boy - un garçon
A girl - une fille
A pen - un stylo
A ruler - une regle
The table - la table
The bed - le lit

You tube and Google has all these....guys....but let us start somewhere abi?

Magnifique...

For those preparing for TEF, I suggest you share your questions here; especially those from past questions.

And for the seniors in the house, please, help others. Language learning is never easy but it is surely smoother when you have people to clarify things for you. Some people here are talented in teaching beginners while some of us would rather solve past questions with more advanced peeps. Whichever category you belong to, bring it on!

As good as this sounds, I am not sure it's the best primary platform for this kind of endeavour.

I think that for this type of coaching/assistance to work, it is best to factor in a few assumptions from the get go. A few coming to mind are:

- Primary aim is to help people learn the language so as to scale the TEF exam
- Coaching responsibility is not going to be the burden of one person but will be shared among volunteers

*Please correct me if I am wrong.

I will personally recommend a platform that encourages people to express themselves both in writing and speaking, but assigned tasks should be searchable as well so everyone can work together on the corrections et al. I have used a platform like this before, hence why I am suggesting it.

njbybrthnly, Etrange, Bellerin, Mariah, Mamaroon, Fille France, rs172 and others...please share your thoughts as well.

djkmz:
Hello njzjdjsjsosidjdndb . Can we have a WhatsApp group for this please? I think it will help a lot.

Is there any WhatsApp group formed yet to this effect? Please for someone who speaks French , Is one month enough to go through the materials and still have a C1 at least in all?

etrange please respond to my email. Thank you.�

ayboye:

- Primary aim is to help people learn the language so as to scale the TEF exam
- Coaching responsibility is not going to be the burden of one person but will be shared among volunteers

*Please correct me if I am wrong.

I will personally recommend a platform that encourages people to express themselves both in writing and speaking, but assigned tasks should be searchable as well so everyone can work together on the corrections et al. I have used a platform like this before, hence why I am suggesting it.

njbybrthnly, Etrange, Bellerin, Mariah, Mamaroon, Fille France, rs172 and others...please share your thoughts as well.

Good points.

Which platform did you previously?

Perhaps an email address where people can submit their writing attempts for correction might be useful.

I think whatsapp may help with instant feedback as regards Speaking.

As for reading and listening, I'm scratching my head to think of a suitable helpful platform.

ayboye:
As good as this sounds, I am not sure it's the best primary platform for this kind of endeavour.

I think that for this type of coaching/assistance to work, it is best to factor in a few assumptions from the get go. A few coming to mind are:

- Primary aim is to help people learn the language so as to scale the TEF exam
- Coaching responsibility is not going to be the burden of one person but will be shared among volunteers

*Please correct me if I am wrong.

I will personally recommend a platform that encourages people to express themselves both in writing and speaking, but assigned tasks should be searchable as well so everyone can work together on the corrections et al. I have used a platform like this before, hence why I am suggesting it.

njbybrthnly, Etrange, Bellerin, Mariah, Mamaroon, Fille France, rs172 and others...please share your thoughts as well.

I understand the need for one to have a rounded knowledge of French language (S, W, L, R) and that's not always very feasible in an environment like ours where the language is not actively used. I am self-taught and back in the years, I used to have all sorts of online groups with e-friends from France who also wanted to learn the English language; we even had periodic video sessions on Skype all in a bid to attain a height not easily achievable down here. I was lucky to have constant internet and some spare time then, not everyone is privileged to those.

So you see, I clearly understand your point, brother. But this platform of which you speak can only be achieved if people are gathered together physically. Unfortunately, different locations and different schedules would only make this an uphill task.

Nevertheless, I am in for any suggestions as regards this.

Maraeme:

Is there any WhatsApp group formed yet to this effect? Please for someone who speaks French , Is one month enough to go through the materials and still have a C1 at least in all?

etrange please respond to my email. Thank you.�

It is very possible. I did not have time to prepare due to my job. I only used two Saturdays to do group studies and I was able to get two C1's. I'd want to believe I could have done better. So an advanced person like you only needs to have some basic understanding of what the examiners are expecting and give it them!

I have responded.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.french.zeemish

I find this app useful for beginners

Hi Bellerin, sorry for the late response.read up on the thread and noticed someone posted a link. Will try that out. Merci

Bellerin:


Merry Christmas! I found that link off a Google search send me a PM so we can find some other way.

Hello @etrange, is It possible to have all info (like test format, how to read, what to expect etc) and resources regarding TEF on page 1 of this thread?

Please who has a schedule of the TEF/TCF tests in Lagos for 2019?

Hello All,

I started my TEF journey about 2 weeks ago. I knew practically no french word before i began. I have been trying to build up... I have been using Duolingo, Roseta and Rocket. I also try to watch French channels , french cartoons i.e Peppa pig and listen to French radio stations. I dont still understand all what they are saying in those programs.

I am beginning to wonder if watching and listening to French programs are effective at this stage. I am currently on holiday and i study for an average of 3 hours daily. I have contacted a French tutor who will resume on the 11th of January. She will tutor me for 2 hours, 3 times a week.

Do you think with all these i would be able to have B2 across board in June?

I am abit worried with my inability to understand a few sentences although i can pick out some words after 2 week of study. Or am i being too ambitious?

Chicagomum:
Hello All,

I started my TEF journey about 2 weeks ago. I knew practically no french word before i began. I have been trying to build up... I have been using Duolingo, Roseta and Rocket. I also try to watch French channels , french cartoons i.e Peppa pig and listen to French radio stations. I dont still understand all what they are saying in those programs.

I am beginning to wonder if watching and listening to French programs are effective at this stage. I am currently on holiday and i study for an average of 3 hours daily. I have contacted a French tutor who will resume on the 11th of January. She will tutor me for 2 hours, 3 times a week.

Do you think with all these i would be able to have B2 across board in June?

I am abit worried with my inability to understand a few sentences although i can pick out some words after 2 week of study. Or am i being too ambitious?

First & foremost, well done!

Not understanding conversations is normal and is part of the process. This is only because you don't have enough vocabulary and you're not yet used to the speed and sound of spontaneous native speakers.

I'd recommend at this stage the following:

1. Use resources with subtitles so you can follow and confirm what's being said. (Add 7 jours de la planete to your list)

2. Learn vocabulary in chunks (find suitable collocations) and not just single words.

3. Give yourself daily objectives. E.g. today 30 December, I should be able to do a self introduction in French. (If you know something, there's a bigger chance you'd be able to recognize it when someone says it)

As regards whether or not you can score a B2 across the board come juin, erm I don't see why not? @njbybrthnly did it.

Cheers!

With your tempo of study, please don't relent. God will crown your effort.

you can also download RFI radio application and constantly listen to french radio.with time, you will improve.

some french words are catchy and are very similar to English to understand while listening to french radio. you won't just be tired.

its all about determination .

As a french language beginner, you are not expected to be hard on yourself while learning. its a gradual process.


some primary sch and junior sec school french books will be of great help.

Chicagomum:
Hello All,

I started my TEF journey about 2 weeks ago. I knew practically no french word before i began. I have been trying to build up... I have been using Duolingo, Roseta and Rocket. I also try to watch French channels , french cartoons i.e Peppa pig and listen to French radio stations. I dont still understand all what they are saying in those programs.

I am beginning to wonder if watching and listening to French programs are effective at this stage. I am currently on holiday and i study for an average of 3 hours daily. I have contacted a French tutor who will resume on the 11th of January. She will tutor me for 2 hours, 3 times a week.

Do you think with all these i would be able to have B2 across board in June?

I am abit worried with my inability to understand a few sentences although i can pick out some words after 2 week of study. Or am i being too ambitious?

Okay. Thank you. I am more motivated.

Will adopt your suggestions.

God bless you.

Bellerin:


First & foremost, well done!

Not understanding conversations is normal and is part of the process. This is only because you don't have enough vocabulary and you're not yet used to the speed and sound of spontaneous native speakers.

I'd recommend at this stage the following:

1. Use resources with subtitles so you can follow and confirm what's being said. (Add 7 jours de la planete to your list)

2. Learn vocabulary in chunks (find suitable collocations) and not just single words.

3. Give yourself daily objectives. E.g. today 30 December, I should be able to do a self introduction in French. (If you know something, there's a bigger chance you'd be able to recognize it when someone says it)

As regards whether or not you can score a B2 across the board come juin, erm I don't see why not? @njbybrthnly did it.

Cheers!

Okay. I will look arround for Primary/Secondary school french books.

I already have the RFI radio app. Tho I do not understand what they are saying will keep listening as you have suggested.

Thank you and God bless!

dandy00:
With your tempo of study, please don't relent. God will crown your effort.

you can also download RFI radio application and constantly listen to french radio.with time, you will improve.

some french words are catchy and are very similar to English to understand while listening to french radio. you won't just be tired.

its all about determination .

As a french language beginner, you are not expected to be hard on yourself while learning. its a gradual process.


some primary sch and junior sec school french books will be of great help.

Well to achieve a B2 level, a private tutor is not the best approach, a private tutor will onlu get you through an elementary level.

Visit these guys I think they will be able to guide you. Or call 08168338757

Really. Why cant a private tutor help? My tutor studied French and has been teaching for sometime.

Now i am confused o....

I opted for the private tutor option cos of my work schedule.

What else can I do to improve my chances?

Amethyst1884:
Well to achieve a B2 level, a private tutor is not the best approach, a private tutor will onlu get you through an elementary level.

Visit these guys I think they will be able to guide you. Or call 08168338757

Amethyst1884:
Well to achieve a B2 level, a private tutor is not the best approach, a private tutor will onlu get you through an elementary level.

Visit these guys I think they will be able to guide you. Or call 08168338757

This assertion of yours is quite...erm.. surprising. There certainly has to be another way to market this business than to make such sweeping statements.

Chicagomum:
Really. Why cant a private tutor help? My tutor studied French and has been teaching for sometime.

Now i am confused o....

I opted for the private tutor option cos of my work schedule.

What else can I do to improve my chances?

Nothing is wrong with private tutoring to understand the basics as njb... did. That person is only advertising his business. Go ahead with your plans.

Kudos to you for the effort you are already putting in. Don't relent.

To add to other suggestions, try to replay the French audio several times (may sound boring but it helps)....the more you listen you'll start to recognize familiar vocabulary.

If there are transcripts ensure you read and understand them and then listen to the file again. Don't be discouraged you're on the right track. A private tutor is great...just ensure you cover the requirements of the exam

Chicagomum:
Really. Why cant a private tutor help? My tutor studied French and has been teaching for sometime.

Now i am confused o....

I opted for the private tutor option cos of my work schedule.

What else can I do to improve my chances?

okay. Thank you!

Flaj:


Nothing is wrong with private tutoring to understand the basics as njb... did. That person is only advertising his business. Go ahead with your plans.

Okay. Thank you!

I hope to provide feedback as to how i am doing periodically.

Thank you all for your words of encouragement. I am grateful!

njbybrthnly:
Kudos to you for the effort you are already putting in. Don't relent.

To add to other suggestions, try to replay the French audio several times (may sound boring but it helps)....the more you listen you'll start to recognize familiar vocabulary.

If there are transcripts ensure you read and understand them and then listen to the file again. Don't be discouraged you're on the right track. A private tutor is great...just ensure you cover the requirements of the exam

This is the most useful thread ever!!!
There's hope for this country! Beautiful Nigerians all over this thread! I'm grateful for every advice here o

Mummychichi:

Hello @etrange, is It possible to have all info (like test format, how to read, what to expect etc) and resources regarding TEF on page 1 of this thread?

Good Morning,

I will look into this once I have the time.

Chicagomum:

Really. Why cant a private tutor help? My tutor studied French and has been teaching for sometime.

Now i am confused o....

I opted for the private tutor option cos of my work schedule.

What else can I do to improve my chances?

Don't mind that business man. He is just marketing his products. A good deal of people here have passed your current stage, I think you listen to them more.

There are advantages in learning along others in a classroom setting. You get to interact more, motivate each other and gain the confidence to speak in public. I learned French on my own and it took me time to feel comfortable enough to engage other francophiles and francophones in a long discussion. Not that I didn't know how to speak, I just wasn't sure I learned it right. Lol. I learned Chinese up to HSK3 (something like DELF B1) in a classroom setting and I was orally ready from day one even when I sounded so horrible.

On the other hand, there are also lots of advagtages in learning with a good private tutor. You tend to go beyond the surface in terms of grammar. You ask all your questions one-on-one. Your progress is easily monitored and you're never demoralised or overshadowed by those seemingly "sharper" students in class who would usually give the tutor the impression everyone is following even when you're lost. Let's just say it's more intensive.

So you see, none is exactly better than the other. It all depends on your determination and judging by your posts, you've got it all.

Bravo !

Guys, I have a question.

What did you choose for language while creating your profile? Only English or Both? Does it have anything to do with one's TEF result? If not, how would CIC actually authenticate this claim?

Me, I don't want to be called for any interview, biko.

I don't believe it's you asking this question ...with all your plenty C1 (any interview should be a walkover for you na). I put both...I'm guessing the test results are sufficient authentication just like IELTS is for English. If not, post-secondary education in English should have been enough proof.

Just my opinion though.

etrange:
Guys, I have a question.

What did you choose for language while creating your profile? Only English or Both? Does it have anything to do with one's TEF result? If not, how would CIC actually authenticate this claim?

Me, I don't want to be called for any interview, biko.

njbybrthnly:

I don't believe it's you asking this question ...with all your plenty C1 (any interview should be a walkover for you na). I put both...I'm guessing the test results are sufficient authentication just like IELTS is for English. If not, post-secondary education in English should have been enough proof.

Just my opinion though.

I'm asking cause of my B1. Hope it won't contradict the response.

Still don't think that will pose a problem...but I'll also like to hear from those who've scaled through under the same circumstances

etrange:


I'm asking cause of my B1. Hope it won't contradict the response.